> ## Documentation Index > Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://notes.kodekloud.com/llms.txt > Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further. # Certification Details > Overview of the RHCSA exam, covering hands-on objectives, format, logistics, fees, validity, and practical study guidance for preparing and scheduling the Red Hat Certified System Administrator certification This lesson explains the Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA) exam: what it covers, how it's delivered, and practical details you need to plan your preparation and scheduling. First, there are no formal prerequisites to register for the RHCSA exam. Anyone with the appropriate skills can take it. The lessons in this course aim to build the hands‑on skills required to sit for and pass the exam. A dark presentation slide with the word "Prerequisites" on the left and a large blue "None" on the right. It indicates there are no prerequisites required. Exam objectives — domains of knowledge * Understand and use essential tools * Manage software * Create simple shell scripts * Operate running systems * Configure local storage * Create and configure file systems * Deploy, configure, and maintain systems * Manage basic networking * Manage users and groups * Manage security Below is a compact table summarizing these domains and typical tasks you should be comfortable with. Use this as a checklist when you build practice labs. | Domain | Typical tasks / skills | | - | - | | Understand and use essential tools | File management, text editors, process monitoring, journals | | Manage software | Install/remove packages, work with RPM and DNF/YUM repositories | | Create simple shell scripts | Write basic Bash scripts to automate common tasks | | Operate running systems | Boot/restore systems, manage systemd services, analyze logs | | Configure local storage | Partitioning, LVM basics, mounting block devices | | Create and configure file systems | Create, check, and mount filesystems; tune options | | Deploy, configure, and maintain systems | System installation basics, SELinux contexts, scheduled tasks | | Manage basic networking | Configure IP addresses, DNS, network services, routing basics | | Manage users and groups | Create users/groups, set permissions, manage authentication | | Manage security | Configure firewalls, SELinux enforcement, secure file permissions | A dark-themed slide titled "Exam Objectives" showing a two-column list of Linux/sysadmin topics such as "Understand and use essential tools," "Manage software," "Create simple shell scripts," "Manage users and groups," and "Manage security." The items are displayed as rounded dark boxes on the right with the title large on the left. How the exam is administered * Format: Performance-based (hands-on). You complete real tasks in a live environment — there are no multiple-choice or true/false questions. * Duration: 3 hours. * Delivery: Proctored at authorized Red Hat testing centers or remotely via Red Hat’s secure remote proctoring. * Cost and validity: Typical fees range from USD 400–500 (check current pricing), and certification is valid for three years. The RHCSA is a hands-on exam: you perform real tasks in a live environment. Frequent lab practice that mirrors real-world scenarios is the most effective way to prepare. Important note about exam content and weighting * Red Hat does not publish fixed weights for each domain; different exam instances may emphasize different areas. To be well prepared, study and practice across all domains listed above. * Practical time management is essential — allocate practice sessions that simulate the three-hour exam to build speed and accuracy. Exam details, pricing, and delivery options may change. Always verify the current exam policies, scheduling, and fees on Red Hat’s official site before registering. Quick reference: exam facts | Item | Detail | | - | - | | Format | Performance-based (hands-on tasks) | | Duration | 3 hours | | Typical fee | USD 400–500 (confirm current price) | | Validity | 3 years | | Delivery | Authorized testing centers & secure remote proctoring | Links and references * Red Hat Customer Portal — RHCSA exam overview: [https://www.redhat.com/en/services/certification/rhcsa](https://www.redhat.com/en/services/certification/rhcsa) * Red Hat documentation: [https://access.redhat.com/documentation](https://access.redhat.com/documentation) Use the table above as a planning checklist and focus your study on building repeatable practical skills in each domain. Good luck with your preparation! This documentation is built and hosted on [Mintlify](https://mintlify.com), a developer documentation platform.